Search Results

Significant research has been underway for many years to develop technologies to electrochemically power vehicles with limited success. Unfortunately, most technologies fail to achieve theoretical performance and/or are prohibitively too expensive for mass marketed vehicles. Most of the issues with electrochemical technologies can ultimately be attributed to materials issues, whether it is cost, durability, or activity. A broad examination of potential electrochemical technologies is provided identifying key materials issues with each. Included are the results of recent research involving lithium-oxygen batteries. The observations from this research have identified the electrochemical product, lithium peroxide, and its properties to be the most pressing material issue for lithium-oxygen battery. A future research vision is proposed counter to the current research trend of electrocatalyst/electrolyte development.